And he said to all, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow me. For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will save it.

Jesus begins his call to follow him with these two words, if anyone…

Anyone is a significant word because it makes it clear whom he is inviting. He is inviting anyone. Anyone is an all-inclusive word. Anyone means everyone. Jesus doesn't begin with a list of per-qualifications. His invitation to follow is addressed to Anyone. Many people don't realize they've been invited to follow. They think, “Not after what I've done. He wouldn't want me to follow him. I would never make the cut.” They assume they aren't qualified and as a result never take seriously what it means to follow Jesus. After all, what's the point in filling out an application if you know you won't be approved?